California advances PFAS ban in packaging, microbeads curbs

USA – The California legislature has approved two significant environmental measures to tackle toxic chemicals and microplastic pollution in consumer goods, forwarding them to Governor Gavin Newsom for approval. 

These bills target per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” in food packaging and extend restrictions on plastic microbeads in personal care items.

Senate Bill 682, led by Senator Ben Allen, prohibits the sale and distribution of food packaging with intentionally added PFAS starting in 2028. 

This extends a 2021 state law that already barred PFAS in plant fiber-based packaging exceeding 100 parts per million of total organic fluorine. 

The new rules also phase out PFAS in juvenile products, dental floss, ski wax, and certain cleaning agents by 2028, with further cuts to additional cleaning components by 2030 and cookware by 2031. 

Environmental groups like the Natural Resources Defense Council and Environmental Working Group back the effort, noting PFAS links to health issues such as immune system damage and cancer risks. 

In contrast, the American Chemistry Council and California Chamber of Commerce raised issues about potential rises in manufacturing costs, estimated at up to US$500 million annually for compliance across affected industries.

Assembly Bill 823, introduced by Assemblymember Tasha Boerner, builds on California’s 2015 ban on plastic microbeads in rinse-off personal care products. 

The legislation bans microbeads in non-rinse-off cosmetics and cleaning supplies by 2029, while setting a 2030 deadline for prohibiting plastic glitter in personal care items. 

Lawmakers called it the first U.S. measure to cover these categories, matching steps taken in the European Union. 

Supporters, including Dr. Bronner’s and the 5 Gyres Institute, emphasized how microbeads pollute waterways and strain wastewater treatment plants, costing facilities over US$100 million yearly in cleanup. 

The Personal Care Products Council, after amendments excluding non-abrasive microbeads, expressed support in a statement, appreciating the collaboration with legislators.

A related proposal, Senate Bill 633, sought to mandate beverage companies to disclose plastic origins in containers and verify recycled content via third-party audits. 

Though endorsed by the National Stewardship Action Council and Republic Services to support local recycling, it drew pushback from beverage and packaging groups over added verification expenses and stalled in session.

In a recent development, Newsom signed AB 347 into law, requiring manufacturers of juvenile products, textiles, and food packaging to register PFAS-free compliance with the Department of Toxic Substances Control by July 1, 2029, and pay a US$1,000 annual fee per product. 

This enforcement tool follows the cookware PFAS ban in SB 682, where celebrity chefs and actor Mark Ruffalo debated its impact on nonstick safety, with the FDA reaffirming PTFE approvals in early 2025.

If enacted, these laws could reshape consumer product standards, reducing chemical exposure and microplastic releases estimated at 40 trillion particles yearly from household items. 

Newsom has until October 11 to act, potentially setting precedents for other states.

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